Local Law Enforcement Issue Holiday Safety Reminders

(Franklin) — “Well friends, 2017 has almost come and gone with 2018 just around the corner. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving planned and will be able to enjoy time with family and friends and remember to be thankful for all your blessings,” states Sheriff Ross Henry.

“This is the time of year when many of us will be taking trips to visit friends and family. It is also the time of year when our Christmas shopping begins,” says Franklin Police Chief Kevin Hannah. “The holiday season should be a time of fun, excitement and fellowship with those close to us. It is also a time to help those in need.”

“I wanted to make all of you aware of some things that we can do as individuals and as communities to make this a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Please take time to read over these safety tips and remind your family and friends as well,” added Sheriff Henry.

Since many of us will be traveling during the holidays, remember the following:

Never leave your home unlocked even for a short time.

Make sure you have a strong lock and security chain on all doors

Install a home security system/alarm with cameras

Never hide extra door keys near the door

Keep valuables and/or large sums of money in a safety deposit box

Leave a light on in a bedroom or bathroom or use an electric timer

Make sure your yard is well lit

Stop all deliveries such as mail & newspapers

Secure all lawn mowers, 4-wheelers, bicycles, etc.

Request home security checks from your local law enforcement agency

Make sure all windows are locked

Have a neighbor or someone else you trust to keep a check on your home

Since you may be planning to travel by vehicle, make sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. Before hitting the open road, make your trip safe and smooth by checking the following:

If walking, stay in well lit areas & avoid short cuts

Don’t wear clothing that restricts your movement

Have your car or house key in hand before reaching the door

If you feel someone is following you, don’t go home. Drive to nearest law enforcement agency, fire station, gas station and ask for help

Don’t pick up hitchhikers

Let’s talk about ATM safety for a minute:

Always use during daylight hours

Memorize your PIN number & don’t carry it with you

Use drive-through ATMs rather than walk-ups

If you must use an ATM at night, ask someone to go with you

Never leave your receipt-take it with you

Never accept help from anyone

Be wary of anyone who crowds you or tries to view your transaction

If someone or something makes you uneasy, terminate the transaction and go to another ATM machine.

While shopping, remember the following as well:

Never carry too many packages/shopping bags at one time.

Secure all purchases in the trunk compartment of vehicle, out of plain sight

If it is late at night, ask a security officer or store employee to escort you to your vehicle

“Please be aware that this is only a few things that we can do to keep ourselves safe, not only during the holiday season, but throughout the year as well,” adds Chief Hannah.

“If you have any questions on safety measures you can take, please contact the Franklin Police Department or the Heard County Sheriff’s Office. We will be more than happy to assist you and answer questions or concerns you may have.”

“We wish you all a very safe and Happy Holiday Season” added Sheriff Henry and Chief Hannah.